Vans is a well-known American shoe manufacturer with a global presence. If you even ask any adolescent what their top ten favorite shoe brands are, you’ll locate vans in the top 5 in the response. It’s because they’re pretty comfy, perfect for casual wear, and stylish.
Vans shoes are widely used for skateboarding, snowboarding, surfing, and riding on BMX. Since its founding year (1966), it has been a favorite among skaters. However, the brand’s genuine success lies in its versatility and wide appeal. Consumers are now using athletic apparel for a variety of reasons, including work, pleasure, and school, without intending to use it for athletic objectives.
Since Vans shoes are very popular, I know many of you may want to purchase that. Before purchasing, you should be aware of several facts about Vans. This article contains everything you need to know about Vans.
Through this article you will get to know:
- The history of Vans
- What are Vans made of?
- Types of Vans
- Different colors available for Vans
- Popular prints of Vans
- Most Notable Vans Shoe Collaboration
The History of Vans
Paul Van Doren chose to launch his own shoe brand after laboring for several seasons at Randy’s, a shoemaker. The Van Doren Rubber Company was founded on March 16, 1966, in Anaheim, California, by Paul Van Doren, his brother Jim Van Doren, with Gordon C. Lee and Serge Delia. The company sold the shoes directly from its premises after manufacturing them. Twelve customers came to the business premises and purchased Vans Deck Shoes on that very first morning.
Now Vans Deck Shoes are known as Authentic and have similarities with Shoes produced by Keds. On opening day, three styles were displayed but they didn’t have the inventory. Even Paul Van Doren was not able to provide customers with enough change on opening day. He allowed the customers to take shoes and asked them to pay the following day. All the customers came back the next day to pay their dues.
Mark Van Doren, the son of co-owner James Van Doren, developed the first version of Vans skateboard emblem in California in the 1970s. Mark created the emblem as just a stencil. James chose to begin making skateboarding shoes once his son became interested in them.
The “Off The Wall” logo first appeared in 1976.
Vans and Supreme collaborated for the first time in 1966.
They unveiled a new logo in 2016 to commemorate their silver jubilee. They also began a campaign to let people know that they were no longer solely a skateboarding company.
Now, let’s have a quick look at the history of Vans.
| Year | Events |
| 1966 | The Van Doren Rubber Company was founded. |
| 1976 | Vans Era designed by Tony Alva and Stacy Peralta were introduced. |
| 1977 | Vans Old Skool was introduced. |
| 1978 | Vans Sk8-Hi was introduced. |
| 1991 | Vans entered into Stock Market through the Nasdaq Stock Exchange. |
| 1993 | Vans Snowboard Boots were introduced. |
| 1995 | Warped Tour were sponsored by Vans for the first time. |
| 1997 | Vans purchased the Triple Crown of Surfing. |
| 2001 | Vans Purchased significant interest of Warped Tour now known as Vans Warped Tour. |
| 2002 | Both Danny Kass and Doriane Vidal won medals with Vans Snowboard Boots on feet in Olympics Games. |
| 2003 | Vans skate team toured 07 countries throughout Europe. |
| 2004 | Vans introduced Customs Vans and Vans was purchased by VF Corporation. |
| 2005 | Vans Downtown Showdown was organized in the Universal Studios on the occasion of Labor Day. |
| 2006 | Christian Hosoi joined Vans team. |
| 2007 | Vans introduced Vans x The Simpsons series. |
| 2008 | Vans opened its first retail store in Shanghai, China. Joet Tudor, surfer joined Vans apparel. |
| 2010 | House of Vans. |
| 2012 | Documentary film named No Room for Rockstars was released in April. Ultracush Lite and Wafflecup technology were introduced. |
| 2013 | Mountain Edition Apparel was introduced, worked together with Metalica and Disney. |
| 2014 | Iouri Podladtchikov snatched gold medal with Vans Snowboard Boots on feet in Olympic Games by defeating Shaun White. |
| 2015 | Both Disney and Vans ‘Young at Heart’ and Vault by Vans x Takashi Murakami were introduced. |
| 2016 | Vans Park Series was first started. |
| 2017 | Vans x Karl Lagerfeld came out, UltraRange was released. |
What Are Vans Made of?
Vans shoes are known for their vulcanized rubber structure, which skaters praise for providing excellent grip and support when on the skateboard.
Vulcanized rubber is unique in that it undergoes two phases of ‘baking’:
Firstly the rubber is vulcanized by heat and compressed. Secondly ‘steam baking’ occurs after assembling to produce a long-lasting but easy-to-break-in shoe.
Synthetic materials, such as thin nylon and EVA foam, cannot be utilized in vulcanized shoes since they melt during the process. Vans sneakers use textiles like canvas and suede as uppers because they can survive the intense heat during manufacture. If you are interested in DIY projects, please know that you can even design your own customs Vans.
Sole
The shoe sole is manufactured from a proprietary composition using a combination of carbon and rubber. The Vans shoe is comprised of canvas and suede, both of which are durable.
Laces
The laces are composed entirely of cotton fibers, and the Aglet is composed of a clear plastic that has been treated with acetone to allow it to be attached to the lace section.
Types and Styles of Vans
Types
Low Top
Due to their lower cut, these skate shoes are usually extremely light. For saving weight and material, the ankle padding has been removed. You won’t have to worry about anything thanks to finely developed insoles, and you won’t have to sacrifice padding or dampening. Slip-On. Old Skool, Checkerboard Skate Slip-On, Kyle Walker, etc., are low-top shoes.
Original Classic
Eco Theory Old Skool Tapered, Eco Theory Authentic, A$AP Worldwide Classic Slip-On, Classic Slip-On, Sk8-Hi, Authentic, Old Skool, etc. are the Vans Original Classic shoes.
High Top
High-Tops in comparison to other forms of footwear, Vans shoes feature a higher cut. They usually end about an inch above the ankle. High-tops provide more outstanding stability and additional padding, resulting in increased safety, cushioning, and protection in the ankle area. Eco Theory Sk8-Hi Tapered, Canvas Sk8-Hi, ComfyCush Sk8-Hi, etc., are high-top shoes.
Boot
Boys Juvie Linerless, Infuse, Standard Mid Snow MTE, UltraRange Exo Hi Gore-Tex MTE-3, etc., boots are available in Vans.
Mid Top
Mid-shoes from Vans are in the middle of the continuum. In comparison to low-cut shoes, mid-tops have a higher cut, and the laces usually end just below or directly at the ankle. As a result, they give greater grip, assistance, and dampening than low-cut sneakers. Furthermore, most mid-tops are perfect as “transitional sneakers” throughout the cooler months of the year since they keep warm and dry. Skate Half Cab, Destruct Mid MTE-1, Kids Hot Flame Sk8-Mid Reissue V, etc are mid-top shoes.
Sandal
Vans sandals are made of rubber, synthetic or textile materials. They are available in various patterns and colors such as checkerboard, solid, black, etc.
Alternative Closure
This model is available in Vans, especially in kids’ shoes. Vans alternative closure shoes are Suede Canvas Old Skool V, Kids Old Skool V, Sk8-Hi Boa MTE-2, etc.
Mule
Vans Mule Shoe is a type of shoe with no back or restriction around the heel of the foot. This is a retro-style shoe. Vans Suede Old Skool Mule, Vans Leather Slip-On Mule, etc., are available.
Styles
UltraRange
The Vans Ultrarange is a pair of sneakers designed for urban exploring. They’re somewhat heavier than Vans Classic shoes, with a super lightweight Pro Vulc Lite design that provides all-day ease and wear for any urban terrain or trip adventure. They are inspired by vintage Vans shoes and include Rapidweld technology for greater water resistance between panels, as well as Gore-Tex fabrics on some versions to truly take the shoes outside.
Sk8-Mid
Kids Sk8-Mid Reissue V, PRIDE SK8-MID, Toddler Suede Gum Sk8-Mid Reissue V, etc., are Sk8-Mid shoes.
Authentic
Authentic is what it says on the label. The shoe’s name couldn’t be any more appropriated, mainly because they’ve been a part of Vans’ lineup since the time of its inception in 1966. Surfers and Skaters alike are fans of this style. You won’t be disappointed with this flawless finish. Vans’ original skate shoe has become synonymous with the brand, and it now comes in almost every pattern and color imaginable, from blossoms to pastels.
Slip-on
From rock concerts to the cinema, these new shoes are ideal for relaxed everyday wear. The Vans Slip-On is available in a range of colors and patterns. For fans of current fits as well as street fashion, the checkerboard slip-on has become an emblematic style. But can you wear socks with Vans slip-on? Check our article to know more.
Era
Vans Era was the earliest shoe created by skateboarders, especially Tony Alva and Stacy Peralta, who are both professional skateboarders. The shoe was based on the authentic model of Vans, with a few small changes, such as the addition of cushioning to the collar. This was the sneaker that gave birth to the “Off the Wall” slogan. This shoe retails for a low price so that anyone can get this. The upper, of course, is very simplistic. The canvas feels sturdy and durable. The insole is completely glued down.
Old Skool
Old Skool vans shoes are one of the most popular shoes of this brand. This sneaker debuted the iconic Jazz Stripe, which started as a scribble by inventor Paul Van Doren. The Old Skool design has become a signature model of the Vans brand because of its simplistic style. You can check our post on the difference between Vans Authentic and Old school.
Sk8 Hi
Vans’ Sk8-Hi, first launched in 1978, has a canvas as well as suede top with the brand’s signature flexible outsoles. Although the monochrome hue is the most popular, the design is available in a variety of colors. This shoe shines out because it performs well in a variety of circumstances all year long.
Half Cab
Half Cab was indeed a tweaked version of the previous Vans Caballero pro model and is undoubtedly the most renowned shoe in the skateboarding industry. This shoe was significantly lighter than the previous model, and it was driven by skaters who flipped the collars of their sneakers down. It was released in 1992, multiple years after the initial model.
Chukka Low
The Vans Chukka Low skate shoes, crafted by the skate crew, combine the iconic design of both the Original and the Chukka Boot’s retro design! Skateboarding shoes with canvas and suede or canvas uppers. It closes with a lace-up front. It has a Polyurethane midsole that gives it a distinct look and feel.
Alomar
The Vans Alomar was a high-top release, and it was introduced to the sneaker industry in 2010. The Alomar seems to be a chukka boot with a more casual form than the 106 Low Top. It has a fashionable style with textile and leather uppers.
Nexpa
The Nexpa Synthesized sandal has flexible nubuck handles, smooth neoprene lining, and ultra-soft sculpted UltraCush Lite Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate footbeds with ankle support. The outsoles (rubber) are durable. These make Nexpa flip-flops stand out in exceptional comfort. Water-based dyes and superglue were used to create it.
Platform
Shoes, sandals, and boots with a visible thick sole, typically in the range of 3 to10 cm or 1 to 4 in, are known as platform shoes. On the other hand, high heels are platform shoes with a heel that is much taller than that of the forefoot. There are various kinds of platform vans shoes: old skool platform, slip-on platform, authentic platform 2.0, Women Classic Old Skool Platform, etc.
Ultrarange Exo
This shoe will keep you at ease even in the most trying of circumstances
The EXO Skeleton has built-in support across the feet and lateral sidewalls, and a sturdy ankle lock. It provides improved grip and flexibility with a fully rubber-wrapped reverse waffle heel outsole. The UltraCush Lite footbed adds comfort without adding weight.
For enhanced ventilation, the UltraCush tongue has breathability vents. You will also find Ultrarange Rapidweld, Ultrarange Gore, Ultrarange Exo Se etc.
Suede/Canvas Old Skool V (Velcro shoes)
The Suede/Canvas Old Skool V retells the famous side stripe sneaker with three hook-and-loop fasteners instead of conventional laces. These are the Velcro shoes of Vans. This low-top model keeps its basic appeal with canvas uppers and durable suede, as well as an easy, secure fit that you will stay comfy all day. Supportive toecaps, ergonomic padded necks, and trademark waffle outsoles (rubber) round out the Suede/Canvas Old Skool V.
Trek Slip-On
The Trek Slip-On is easy to pack for your next excursion, intended to be ultralight and entirely washable so that you can slip on and so on. All you have to do now is go surfing and then do it again.
These shoes are washable and breathable. Ventilation holes ensure that whatever gets in comes out.
MTE (Mountain Edition)
MTE stands for Mountain Edition, which is a weatherproof version of famous Vans shoes like the UltraRange EXO Hi MTE, Era MTE, and the SK8-Hi MTE Nothing will be able to keep you from your next trip, whether it’s rain, mud, sleet, wind, or snow.
The All-TracTM outsole is indeed a brand-new rubber compound that provides flexibility and real all-weather traction on various surfaces. It has humidity control and a thermoregulation mechanism.
UV Vans
The Ultraviolet Print is heat-sensitive, which means it reveals secret colors and designs on the shoe’s exterior whenever exposed to Light (about at 32°to 38° Celsius). Each sun-activated style is sure to lighten your shoe closet.
The method is employed in three of the brand’s historic silhouettes: the Classic Slip-On, Old Skool Stacked, and Era Stacked.
- A blue solid and checkered design climbs from the bottom towards the upper of Vans’ UV Ink Classic Slip-On.
- When the UV Paint Era Stacked is exposed to sunlight, a floral design pops up on the top’s upper edge of a colorful spotted pattern. The silhouette adds a modern spin to a Vans classic, enhancing the Classic Era design.
- When exposed to the sun, Vans’ UV Ink Old Skool Stacked Sneaker in a stylish leopard design comes alive with pink and purple tones.
Vault by Vans
Vault is Vans’ top-grade product, having been founded in 2003. Vault by Vans’ is a bit more expensive than regular vans. The vault vans are made of higher-quality materials than the standard vans. The rubber foxing around the shoe is thicker than on conventional vans.
This provides the shoe with a more balanced appearance while also making the toe box appear narrower. Because the sole is significantly chunkier than ordinary Vans, they can withstand better. The insole is a little thicker.
Standard Snow Boots
- Vans Hi-Country & Hell Bound Snowboard Boots: These boots are Ultra-stiff and ultra-responsive, have a Waterproof shroud, so Laces don’t freeze up when you are out.
- Vans Aura Pro Snowboard Boots: This one has double boa. Suitable for intermediate to advanced skaters. The flex rating is 5 to 6 /10
- Vans Invado OG Snowboard Boots: This has traditional lace but a hybrid system that keeps the lockdown in mid-step for less heel lift. Suitable for beginner to intermediate riders and All-mountain freestyle riders. Flex rating is 4 to 6/10.
- Vans Hi-Standard DX Linerless Snowboard Boot: As its name defines, it does not have liners. It is just one piece of shell. These boots are definitely for freestyle street park riders and are suitable for beginners. The Flex rating is 1 to 2/10
Vans Lowland CC
The Vans Lowland CC is a classic skate shape with a narrow profile and a ComfyCush sole from the 1990s. This model features a familiar yet thrilling, fresh look, thanks to solid leather straps with a historical “Flying V” Vans emblem. This shoe comes in eight colors.
Surf Boot
Vans surf boots are unique, and it feels like a second skin. So the fit is praiseworthy. The Surf Boot offers the next level of pure performance without giving up style. It has antibacterial lining and round toe construction for universal fit. Some surfing boots are high dipped, and some are mid dipped.
Vans Skate Shoes
Any shoe with the word “pro” at the end was a skate-specific version. Vans has changed the naming convention and now refers to them as “The Skate Classics.” So what was once known as Authentic pro is now known as Skate authentic.
Duracap reinforcement is included in all skate classics for further durability when a hole has been worn through the upper material. Internal tongue straps keep the shoe firmly in place on your foot. Vans skateboarding shoes are quite popular among skateboarders.
Comfycush
The comfy cush version of vans is softer and makes you feel like walking on air. It is constructed with canvas and suede uppers and is very lightweight.
Velvet Vans
Velour uppers with cushioned collars, flexible side embellishments, and characteristic rubber waffle outsoles define the Velvet Classic Slip-On. These are incredibly fashionable and preferred by women mostly. You can go to school wearing these or even to a party. They come in various colors. When you put your hand on the outer side of the velvet vans shoes, you will see that it does not change color.
Different Colors Available for Vans
Vans shoes are available in many colors and there are Van shoes that change colors in the sun.
- Black: This is the most popular color of Vans, and all most all the shoes of vans are available in this color, including the surf boots. Usually, the black shoes have white outsoles. But if you want a black outsole. It would be best if you mentioned that.
- Blue: There are many shades of blue available on vans shoes, from light blue to midnight blue. Checkered Slip-On, Old Skool, Sk8-Hi, Authentic, Era, etc shoes are blue.
- Pink: The pink color of vans is pretty soothing to the eyes. They are mostly light pink. The Customs Authentic Wide is a bit darker.
- Purple: The vans purple has a bit reddish vibe in it. It is more like a plum. Sk8-Hi, Kids Sk8-Hi, Kids Checkerboard Slip-On, Toddler Checkerboard Slip-On V, Kids Old Skool, etc are available in this color.
- White: Canvas Old Skool, Authentic, Era, Slip-On, etc shoes are available in white
- Red: It is one of the most desired colors of vans shoes. A lot of shoes are available in this color for kids, women, and men.
- Green: The green color is way darker. If you don’t look carefully, you may think it’s black. Kids Checkerboard Sk8-Hi Mid Reissue V, Kid old skool, and Toddler Old Skool are available in this color.
- Brown: Old Skool, Authentic, Checkerboard Classic Slip-On, and Sk8-Hi are available in this color.
- Gray: Old Skool, Authentic, Checkerboard Classic Slip-On, and Sk8-Hi are available in this color.
- Burgundy: The Checkerboard Classic Slip-On and Old Skool are available in this color. There is slightly difference between Vans purple and burgundy.
- Multicolor: You can customize your Vans using various colors. Shoes containing checkerboard print with a flame on them are quite popular. Old Skool, Authentic, Sk8-Hi, and Customs Authentic Wide are available in both yellow and orange.
- Heather: Kyle 2 is available in this color. This color is a shade of grey and suits people of all ages.
- Tan: Very few shoes are available in this color, and Sk8-Hi Boa MTE-2 is one of them.
- Vans Yacht Club: The Old Skool Yacht Club shoes are in blue, green, red, and yellow are a bright alternative to the Vans inventory.
You can check our article, what color VANS should you get?
Popular Prints of Vans
Animal print or Stripes
The animal prints of Vans is quite popular and brings uniqueness to our casual wear. You will find many animal prints, including Cheetah, leopard, snake, Dalmatian, Cow, Zebra, etc. You also can customize your shoe print according to your choice.
Checkerboard Print
This print is available on Slip-On, Old Skool, Skate Slip-On, Authentic, Platform, Sk8-Hi, and so on.
Pride/ Rainbow Print
To support LGBTQIA+, Vans introduced this print.
Most Notable Vans Shoe Collaborations
In the 1970s, footwear businesses have adopted collaboration with the largest and most on-trend names in the fashion and creative industries—a legacy that continues even now. Few companies can match Vans’ history of footwear collaborations, so we’ve compiled a list of the most notable Vans shoe collaborations over the last 30 years.
Supreme
This was Vans’ first collaboration ever (1996). The Old Skool was picked as the first silhouette to collaborate with, and a trio of hues was created.
Chima pro
Vans’ Chima Pro was created in 2013 with Australian skateboarder Chima Ferguson and featured canvas and suede top shoes. The new design incorporates a lighter inner part, such as a Duracap top reinforcement that protects the shoe from normal wear and tear.
Chima Pro 2
The uppers of Chima Ferguson’s iconic Chima 2 are comprised of durable canvas and suede. The UltraCush 3D gel insoles combine UltraCush’s featherweight and flexible feel with dual-density cushion and sculpted heel pads for unrivaled cushioning, while the Vans’ traditional waffle outsoles are comprised of rubber for traction and support. The Chima 2 has a Professional Vulc Lite structure for superior board feel, flexibility, and grip.
Harry Potter
Each house was a model for vans shoes (Gryffindors, Slytherins, Hufflepuffs, and Ravenclaws). These shoes were very popular among the Potterheads.
The other noteworthy collaboration of vans are:
Simpsons, NASA, Marvel Avengers, Fear of God, Led Zeppelin, The ASPCA, SpongeBob, The Blends Bone, MOMA (The Museum of the Modern Art), Vans X MOCA, Beetlejuice, Gremlins, Kyle Walker, Andrew Reynolds, Chima Ferguson, Vans X Skateistan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Vans Good for Restaurants?
You can check our article, Are Vans good restaurant shoes?
What are non slip shoes?
Check our article, how do non slip shoes work?
Can people with wide feet wear Vans?
You can check our article, are Vans comfortable for wide feet?
Can You Wear Vans as Business Casual?
Vans can be used as business casual depending on the situation. We have an article on this, you can check it out.
Are There Nike Shoes That Have the Same Look as Vans Shoes?
Yes, there are some Nike shoes that have the same look as Vans shoes.
Do Vans Shrink?
You can shrink Vans using some process. We have covered this topic on our website.
Are Vans True to Size?
Vans are mostly true to size. You can check our comprehensive article on this topic.
Is It Possible to Lift in Vans?
Yes, it is possible to lift in Vans.
What are the differences between Vans filmore and sk8 hi?
You can read my article on the differences between Vans filmore and sk8 hi.
What are the differences between Vans stackform and platform shoes?
You can check my article on the differences between Vans stackform and platform shoes.
What are the differences between Vans ultrarange exo and rapidweld?
You can go through my article on the differences between Vans ultrarange exo and rapidweld shoes.
What are the differences between Cariuma and Vans?
Please read my article on the differences between Cariuma and Vans.
What are the differences between Vans Normal and wide sizing?
You can check my article on the differences between Vans regular and wide sizing.
Why Do Vans Hurt Pinky Toe?
Please go through my article on why do vans hurt my pinky toe?
How to Take Care of Vans?
To make Vans last longer, you need to clean Vans when necessary.
Do Vans Have Running Shoes?
Vans have shoes specifically designed for running. But are running in Vans worth it is another question. You can check our article on this topic on our website.
What is the average weight of Vans shoes?
Please check our article on how much does a pair of Vans weigh?
Wrapping Up
We hope that our readers will find this article helpful. We have tried to cover many aspects of Vans. But there are many queries that have not been answered in this article as it is not possible to cover everything in one single article. People have queries about whether Vans are slip-resistant or not, do vans add height or not, whether is possible to lift in Vans. You may also have questions like are vans good for your feet or bad for your feet, whether people with flat feet and wide feet can wear Vans, do vans have arch support and many more. We have tried to cover almost all the topics on Vans on our website. We believe that these articles on Vans will be able to add value for our readers.